KABUL (SW) – The Center for Global Development (CGD) has stated that Afghanistan is one of the eight countries most in need of the United States’ financial aid.
The center also highlighted that South Sudan, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Afghanistan, Uganda, and Ethiopia are the most dependent on U.S. assistance. The organization has urged donor countries to prepare for the possible suspension of U.S. aid programs and to focus more on Afghanistan, Sudan, and Somalia.
Despite these concerns, officials from Ministry of Economy under the Islamic Emirate say that the suspension of U.S. aid has not impacted Afghanistan’s economic situation.
Abdul Rahman Habib, spokesperson for the ministry, emphasize that the ministry of economy is focusing on domestic income, resources, and capacities to stabilize the economy.
“Our economic growth depends on our revenue sources and internal capacities; the suspension of aid has not affected the current economic situation, but some humanitarian organizations have been negatively impacted,” he said.
Some economic experts argue that to reduce Afghanistan’s vulnerability to the suspension of U.S. aid, investment must be directed towards natural resources and infrastructure.
Zohur Modaber, an economic expert, suggests that focused planning on development projects could lead to economic growth in Afghanistan. “The Islamic Emirate needs to focus on long-term strategies and infrastructure, foster the private sector, and create an environment conducive to investment,” he added.
Abdul Nasir Rashtia, another economic expert, weighed in that, “If the suspension of aid continues, there are two solutions: first, attracting investments, which requires resolving political issues with the world; second, the focus should be on boosting domestic production.”
The Center for Global Development has mentioned that if U.S. aid is halted or continues to be suspended, the European Union and German government could step in to continue humanitarian activities in Afghanistan.
In the early days of his 2025 presidency, Donald Trump suspended U.S. cash aid to Afghanistan for a period of 90 days.
